In a surprise move, ‘smart’, the brand designed by Mercedes-Benz, is launching a new EV SUV in New Zealand.
For some reason, the brand has decided to ditch things like a capital first letter, and is known only as ‘smart’.
The company says the new range offers performance tuning by Brabus, a Beats sound system with over a dozen speakers and an AI-powered avatar for voice-controlled interaction. Recognised with both Red Dot and iF Design awards, it also delivers up to 455 km WLTP range and five-star ANCAP & ENCAP ratings.
“When it comes to the latest and greatest fully-electric SUV models to arrive in New Zealand, the new smart portfolio has the premium segment of the market covered,” said smart General Manager, Arek Zywot.
“smart is a bold and distinctive brand that challenges conventions , combining high-end collaborations to deliver a truly unique and premium experience.
“The new models are bigger, longer and faster compared with smart cars of days gone by. What’s not to love about eye-catching aesthetics, feature-rich vehicles with impressive technology, stunning 0-100km acceleration and using 100% electric power?”
The company is launching with two model lines – the simply named smart #1 urban SUV and the smart #3 coupe SUV – each available in three variants. With over 50 combinations of colours, roof designs, and interior options, smart claims it offers driving enthusiasts a premium experience infused with distinctive brand flair and personality.
Those seeking a performance EV might enjoy the Brabus enhanced variant, delivering a claimed 0-100km sprint of 3.7 seconds.
“The new range of smart models offers an exciting new choice of fully electric vehicles for drivers who want to indulge their passion for highly specified and desirable sustainable personal mobility,” said Mr Zywot.
Aspiring smart owners are invited to register their interest at nz.smart.com to ensure they are at the front of the queue to receive news and exclusive offers about the new marque.
“The website and social media channels are now live and the first delivery of customer cars is anticipated later this quarter.”
Full details regarding smart pricing, specification and retail locations will be released in coming weeks.
smart Automobile was established in 2019 and is a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Geely, since that time it has delivered over 100,000 new-generation units globally. The marque’s business footprint covers 28 markets, including Europe, China, the Middle East, South America, Southeast Asia and Oceania.
